Papuan independence group invited to the next MSG meeting

Independence supporters hoist the separatist Morning Star flag at Jayapura in the Indonesian province of Papua. The flag is commonly used by the Free Papua Organisation (OPM). (Credit: ABC)

Papuan independence leaders say membership of the Melanesian Spearhead Group would be a major breakthrough. Papuan independence activists in Vanuatu say membership of the Melanesian Spearhead Group would be a major breakthrough in its fight for independence from Indonesia.

The West Papuan National Coalition for Liberation has been invited to the upcoming MSG summit in Noumea by New Caledonia's indigenous Kanak political group, the FLNKS (Kanak Socialist Front for National Liberation).

It's the first time they'll attend the Melanesian states gathering as an independent entity.

An application has been lodged to give the coalition full summit membership.

If the application is successful, it will elevate the status of the Indonesian province's campaign for independence.